Bharat Ratna for Karpoori Thakur: Know More about the Champion of Social Justice in North India

Completing matriculation was held a remarkable accomplishment for the children of rural India during the pre-independence era, despite the challenges they faced, such as walking barefoot for 6 kilometers to attend school. However, when Karpoori Thakur sought financial assistance for further studies from a local individual with a feudalistic mindset, he was met with dismissive and demeaning attitude, being commanded to perform a menial task such as pressing the individual's legs.

Abolished English at matriculation level

The memory of this humiliating experience stayed with Thakur throughout his life, fueling his passion to fight against the unjust treatment of marginalized communities. He eventually became drawn to the ideology of 'Lohia' political thought as a means of empowering lower castes. This led him to join a socialist party and become a member of the Bihar Vidhan Sabha in 1952.

When Thakur became Education Minister in 1967, one of his major initiatives was to abolish the requirement of English language at the matriculation level, which had been a barrier for many students in competing examinations.

Increased access to education

Thakur's influence in anti-congress politics in Bihar led him to become the first non-congress Chief Minister of the state, and he played a key role in the development of backward caste politics. Building on his socialist principles, he implemented policies aimed at increasing access to education, including opening new schools and colleges and making education up to 8th grade free. These efforts helped to reduce dropout rates in schools.

In 1978, Thakur, a strong advocate for social justice, implemented the recommendations of the Murari lal Commission which included reservation in jobs for most backward and backward classes at 12% and 8% respectively, 3% for women, and 3% for economically backward classes.

Initiated major land reforms

Thakur also initiated land reforms, which led to the forced release of land from Zamindars for distribution to landless Dalits. These historic social reforms earned him the title "Jannayak" (People's Hero). However, these policies faced significant resistance from the privileged class. He faced abuse and slogans targeting him were scrawled on walls throughout the state.

Thakur, who was mentored by the Lohia school of thought, went on to mentor many leaders, including Lalu Prasad Yadav, Ram Vilas Paswan, and Nitish Kumar, who continued his legacy of promoting social justice. He is considered the pioneer of affirmative action policies in the state of Bihar.

Inspiration for future leaders

Karpoori Thakur passed away on February 17th, 1988. He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to promoting social justice in the face of significant resistance and political obstacles. His perseverance served as an inspiration for future leaders who also faced opposition in implementing policies aimed at achieving redistributive justice. The title "Jannayak" which means 'People's Hero' is a testimony to his impact and legacy.